A quantity of class C prescription drugs was also seized. A Belfast City Council spokeswoman said: "An animal welfare officer attended this scene at the request of the PSNI. An animal welfare investigation is ongoing into this matter."

The 2014 case was brought after months of investigation into the family by police.

Officers uncovered the cruelty after they seized a mobile phone belonging to Morrow for an unconnected reason.

Detectives found three video clips from 2011 that showed four dogs attacking and killing a cat.

A subsequent examination linked the dogs in the video to those seized from the four.

The USPCA has encouraged the public to be vigilant and report any animal welfare concerns they might have.

A spokesman said: "The suffering of animals abused for the sadistic pleasure of individuals addicted to the infliction of pain and injury is abhorrent to the USPCA.

"The veterinary staff members at our animal hospital are regularly left to pick up the pieces of lives destroyed by sickening abuse.

"This charity welcomes the scale of sentences at the disposal of the courts and the ongoing efforts of the agencies responsible for the enforcement of our animal welfare legislation.

"We would encourage the public to refer their animal welfare concerns to the relevant agency for investigation.

"If in doubt call the USPCA on 028 3025 1000.

"By acting collectively we can prevent further appalling suffering and ensure those responsible for the vilest of abuses are put before the courts."